News

McLean County Selects Farnsworth Group for Top Business Award2015-07-16

The McLean County (Illinois) Chamber of Commerce selected Farnsworth Group to receive its Large Business Excellence Award.

The Company was honored for its commitment to central Illinois, providing professional design services, and giving back to its communities.

In honoring Farnsworth Group, the Chamber stated, "Whether it’s being an active volunteer in various local professional organizations, mentoring future engineers/architects throughout the area, implementing innovative and sustainable design or supporting numerous social agencies that help the less fortunate, Farnsworth Group, Inc. prides itself on giving back to its community, environment, and helping to create a better world."

Engineering News-Record Midwest has released its annual Top Design Firms ranking for the Midwest region, with Farnsworth Group landing at No. 25.

Farnsworth Group moved up nine spots from 2014's position at No. 34 on the Midwest list. The ENR Midwest Top Design Firms list ranks the largest Midwest-based engineering, architectural and environmental design firms, both publicly and privately held, based on annual revenue at home and abroad by each company.

ENR's national ranking was released earlier this year, with Farnsworth Group landing at No. 166 on the national Top 500 Design Firms listing.

Farnsworth Group Cracks Top 200 on ENR Top Design Firms List2015-05-21

Engineering News-Record has released its annual Top 500 Design Firms list, and Farnsworth Group has cracked the Top 200 landing at No. 166. This marks the Company's highest ranking ever on the list.

Farnsworth Group was once again one of the biggest movers in the Top 500, moving up 47 spots from its previous position at No. 213. The previous year saw Farnsworth Group at No. 245.The Top 500 Design Firms list ranks the 500 largest U.S. based engineering, architectural and environmental design firms, both publicly and privately held, based on annual revenue at home and abroad by each company.

Farnsworth Group, Inc., an employee-owned company, is a full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, offering clients more than 450 professionals located throughout a nationwide network of offices including Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Wisconsin, California, Texas, Georgia and Indiana.

Farnsworth Group Takes First Place in Gateway Design Competition2015-04-27

Farnsworth Group Inc. was awarded first place in the Warehouse District Gateway Design Competition on Saturday. Sponsored by the Peoria section of the American Institute of Architects, the contest sought creative ideas for a “doorway” for both vehicles and pedestrians to the city’s historic Warehouse District.

The design developed by Farnsworth Group’s multi-disciplinary team hints at the district’s storied past, incorporating whiskey barrels and steel I-beams to honor the district’s industrial roots. Repurposed bricks from demolished buildings help keep a sense of that history while reflecting recent renovation efforts. At night, the design comes alive with the use of multi-colored LED lights inside the steel columns and pathway lights embedded in the pavement. These elements combined embrace the Warehouse District’s potential to rejuvenate downtown’s premier urban neighborhood - where streets are animated with people living, working, and playing.

This collaborative effort by Farnsworth Group’s architects, landscape architects and civil engineers is a prime example of the comprehensive approach clients can expect with the full-service firm.

All of the submitted designs will be on display for the next few weeks at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, where visitors can cast their votes for the People’s Choice Award.

Design/Build Team of Turner, Gensler and Farnsworth Group Works with Caterpillar on Corporate Headquarters Study2015-02-20

Peoria, IL – The Design/Build team of Turner, Gensler and Farnsworth Group has been working with Caterpillar Inc. on the study for the modernization of the Caterpillar global headquarters.

Caterpillar employees were integrated in the process led by Turner, with Gensler and Farnsworth Group providing the architectural design and engineering. This integrated process evaluated options and developed solutions from a total cost of ownership perspective.

Caterpillar announced Friday, February 20, that the study is complete and revealed a modern six-block campus design that spans 31 acres near the Peoria Riverfront.

Farnsworth Group is a national, full-service engineering and architecture firm that provides innovative design solutions to a broad base of clients and market sectors. With its corporate headquarters located in central Illinois, Farnsworth Group is a century-old design firm that has more than 450 employees located in seven Illinois locations, including Peoria, and 10 additional offices throughout the U.S. The firm specializes in offering multi-discipline design teams that work seamlessly together resulting in successful, innovative and complex buildings, facility systems and infrastructure. Farnsworth Group’s philosophy is built on establishing long-term relationships with its clients, and successfully completing projects that help businesses and communities prosper and thrive.

Turner began Illinois operations in 1924, and has grown into a staff of over 220 professionals in its Illinois business unit. Turner annually completes more than $600 million of construction volume in Illinois. Builders of award-winning projects in a variety of Illinois market segments, Turner has grown its presence in Central Illinois since the early 1990’s, largely in the Peoria, Champaign and Bloomington/Normal areas. Turner is a North America-based, international construction services company and is a leading builder in diverse and numerous market segments. The company has earned recognition for undertaking large, complex projects, fostering innovation, embracing emerging technologies, and making a difference for their clients, employees and community. With a staff of 5,200 employees who work on more than 1,500 projects each year, we offer clients the accessibility and support of a local firm with the stability and resources of a multi-national organization. Turner’s recent accolades include 2014 Engineering News Record’s #1 rankings in nine categories including General Buildings, Green Buildings, Commercial Office and Healthcare. More information can be found at www.turnerconstruction.com

Gensler is a global design firm grounded in the belief that great design optimizes business performance and human potential. Our 4,800 practitioners networked across 46 offices use global perspective and local presence to innovate at every scale. Whether we are planning a new urban district, designing a super tall building, or refreshing a retailer’s brand, we strive to make the everyday places people occupy more inspiring, more resilient, and more impactful. Gensler is challenging the conventional office with our workplace research, envisioning a better urban future with our Reimagining Cities initiative, redefining skylines as does the Shanghai Tower, and reshaping the future of retail. Gensler’s recent accolades include the 2014 AIA Institute Honor Award for Architecture; #1 Most Admired Firm Interior Design 2014 Rising Giants; Architect magazine #3 Architecture Firm 2014; Architectural Record #1 Architecture Firm 2013; #3 Most Admired Firm Building Design 2015 World Architecture 100 Rankings. More information can be found at www.gensler.com

St. Louis Office Earns Green Challenge Award2015-01-29

Farnsworth Group's St. Louis office received the “Award of Merit- Greatest Gain” in the Tenant category as part of the St. Louis Green Business Challenge.

The St. Louis Green Business Challenge, a joint program of the St. Louis Regional Chamber and the Missouri Botanical Garden, supports integration of sustainability measures in the daily operational practices common to every business. Some of these practices include: assisting in the adoption of strategies that can improve financial performance, engaging employees and reducing environmental impact of their operations. Since its inception in 2010, 150 companies including more than 125,000 employees have participated in the Challenge.

Farnsworth Group’s St. Louis office accomplishments were led by Electrical Engineering Intern Zach Carter. Zach initiated the office’s first “Shift Your Commute” challenge, where employees were encouraged to change their commute by taking alternative forms of transportation. Twenty-four employees participated in this event. A carpool map was created to encourage the employees to coordinate rides.

The St. Louis office also coordinated with SWT Design and held the annual PARK(ing) Day event, where a parking stall was transformed into an educational social node. Finally, Zach and the “Green Team” posted clean air updates. Due to Zach and the team’s efforts, Farnsworth Group had the greatest gain in their respective group.

“Farnsworth Group is excited to once again participate in the Challenge with a new team who set their sights high and had fun at the same time," said Farnsworth Group Principal and Office Leader Bob Polk, PE, LEED AP. "The team’s enthusiasm and hard work helped raise awareness of the value of sustainability.”

Farnsworth Group CEO Recognized as Woman of Influence2015-01-16

Farnsworth Group President and Chief Executive Officer Karen Jensen, PE, was recently recognized as a 'Woman of Influence" by InterBusiness Issues, a central Illinois-based business publication.

Four 'Women of Influence' were profiled in the December edition of the publication.

The Farmington, Illinois,
Community Unit School District #265 held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the installation on a new $1.8 million solar
array at the school.

The project
will include the installation of 2,520, 300-watt solar panels on the Farmington
school’s rooftops, making it the largest single solar array located at an
Illinois school.Construction and installation
are projected to be completed by December 2014.

Operational,
the solar panels will reduce the school’s utility costs by approximately 30
percent.Also, Farmington educators will
incorporate the solar project into their educational curriculum involving many
different subjects.Real-time energy
savings and consumption will also be available on the school’s intranet
website.

The solar
array is being partially funded by a $1.15 million energy grant from the
Illinois Clean Energy Foundation.Farnsworth
Group is serving as the design
consultant on the project.Clean Energy
Design Group, Inc. is partnering with Farnsworth Group and acting as the
operative Design/Build firm on the project design and final installation.

CEFCU Earns LEED Certified Rating from USGBC2014-10-14

Germantown Hills, IL...October 14, 2014…CEFCU’s Germantown Hills, IL, Member Center has earned LEED Certified designation by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings. Farnsworth Group served as the primary Engineer and sustainability consultant on the project.

The Germantown Hills Member Center is a new 4,500-square-foot facility that includes a number of sustainable features. The facility was designed to include high efficiency HVAC and plumbing systems, LED lighting throughout the Member Center, construction materials and systems that contain recycled and regional content, and native/indigenous plantings and landscaping that utilize fewer water resources.

CEFCU’s Germantown Hills location is the third CEFCU Member Center to achieve LEED-Certified status, with the other two located in Springfield, IL, and Chillicothe, IL.

Farnsworth Group, Inc., announced today it has acquired the Champaign, IL,
consulting office location of Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC.This acquisition includes only Foth’s
Champaign office and not any of its other office locations.

Foth’s
Champaign office, located on Broadmoor Drive, has a long history in central
Illinois, having previously operated as Daily & Associates for more than 50
years before joining Foth in 2005.The
office provides Transportation, Water, Wastewater, Municipal, Stormwater,
Structural, and Land Development Engineering services to a broad range of
clients, most notably Illinois municipalities and state agencies.

The
acquisition further strengthens Farnsworth Group’s presence in the Champaign
area, which also operates a consulting office located on Neil Street. Farnsworth
Group’s Champaign office was established in 2002 and offers Architecture, Civil
Engineering and Surveying services.

More
than 25 Foth employees will be joining Farnsworth Group, bringing the Company’s
total Champaign presence to nearly 40 staff members.For now, the two offices will continue to
operate from their current locations. Farnsworth Group now has more than 400 employees located nationwide.

“We are always looking to acquire exceptional
talent and expertise that adds value to Farnsworth Group’s clients and further
complements our existing business practice,” said Farnsworth Group President
and Chief Executive Officer Karen Jensen, PE.“Foth’s Champaign office and staff certainly fulfills that goal.With this addition, we will now be
able to provide our clients with full-service engineering and architecture
services from our Champaign location.”

Combined,
the Champaign offices will continue to serve clients such as the cities of
Champaign and Urbana, the University of Illinois, Illinois Department of
Transportation and municipalities throughout Illinois, as well as support
Farnsworth Group projects nationwide.

Bloomington, IL … April 29, 2014…Farnsworth Group, Inc., a national full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, has been recognized as one of the Top 500 Design Firms by Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine.

Farnsworth Group landed at No. 213 on the ENR annual listing of the Top 500 Design Firms for 2013, marking the firm's highest ever ranking on the list. Farnsworth Group was one of the biggest movers, moving up 32 spots from last year’s ranking of No. 245. The Top 500 Design Firms list ranks the 500 largest U.S. based engineering, architectural and environmental design firms, both publicly and privately held, based on annual revenue at home and abroad by each company.

“We always look forward to ENR’s annual ranking of the top design firms, and we are proud to be listed as one of the Top 500 firms in the nation,” said Farnsworth Group President and Chief Executive Officer Karen M. Jensen, PE. “Our move in the rankings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, and the quality of services that we provide to our clients. We know that our success is dependent on the level of service we provide, and the close relationship we develop with our valued clients.”

Farnsworth Group was recently awarded a merit award by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) in the 2014 Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards Competition.

Farnsworth Group's award winning project, Larry Gabriel Bridge on the Fox River Trail, was selected in the Small Projects category. Entries are judged on the basis of engineering excellence, the degree to which the client's needs are met and the benefits to the public welfare and private practice of engineering.

When the Fox River Trail System was developed in 1981, it included an existing bridge that was constructed in 1931 and located at Island Park in Geneva, Illinois. By 2004, the superstructure had deteriorated beyond repair. Farnsworth Group designed a new superstructure for the Geneva Park District that maintained the historical aesthetics, while incorporating modern design standards.

Approximately 200' of the trail itself north and south of the bridge was replaced and a pedestrian overlook area was added. Decorative metal railings were included as an additional safety feature. The rehabilitation of the Larry Gabriel Bridge not only provides aesthetic and safety improvements, but also preserves an essential connection to this 100-plus-mile trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The award was presented during a luncheon on February 7, 2014 at the Marriott in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois.

Farnsworth Group Named a 'Best Engineering Firm to Work For!'2014-02-27

Farnsworth Group has been named one of the "Best Engineering Firms to Work For" as part of a recent survey and competition conducted by the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE).

More than 40 Illinois engineering firms participated in the competition, with the top six firms earning the designation of "Best Engineering Firms to Work For."

"The Illinois Society of Professional Engineers is proud to celebrate the exceptional professional engineers and engineering firms in Illinois. This competition is intended to shine the spotlight on engineering firms that receive the highest marks from their employees," said ISPE President Claude H. Hurley, P.E. "ISPE congratulates the winning firms and others who took part in the competition. They are advancing the practice of engineering in the state of Illinois."

The competition included an initial overview of the Company followed by an employee survey where Farnsworth Group’s Illinois Professional Engineers and ISPE members answered questions ranging from employee benefits to the workplace environment and overall job satisfaction.

"I believe Farnsworth Group employees are among the best and brightest in the industry," said Karen Jensen, PE, Farnsworth Group President and Chief Executive Officer. "It is our mission to create an exceptional workplace that is not only productive, but creates an exciting work environment. We strive to provide our employees with a competitive benefits program and encourage them to continually advance their professional careers. I am honored that our employees are proud to work for our company. We are pleased to have been selected as one of the ‘Best Engineering Firms to Work For’ by our employees and are proud to support the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers."

Firms will be recognized at ISPE’s annual convention in July.

Farnsworth Group Opens New Office in Texas2014-02-12

Farnsworth Group, Inc. announced today it has opened a new consulting office in Frisco, Texas. The office is located in the Hall Office Park located at 2595 Dallas Parkway, Suite 102 in Frisco, located just outside of Dallas.

With the new Texas location, Farnsworth Group now has 16 offices in seven states.

Farnsworth Group, Inc., an employee-owned company, is a full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, offering clients over 350 professionals located throughout a nationwide network of offices including Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Wisconsin, California and Georgia.

Farnsworth Group Acquires SEM Architects2014-01-30

Farnsworth Group announced that it has acquired SEM
Architects (SEM), a 14-person architecture firm based in Denver, CO.

SEM was
founded in 1978 and has one of the largest design portfolios in the commercial
development sector in the Rocky Mountain region.In its first decade, SEM advanced from
serving local clients to playing roles in regional and national projects.Its services include architectural, master planning,
entitlements, and interior design services for clients in mixed-use, retail,
office and build-to-suit markets. The Streets at Southglenn in Centennial,
Colorado and the Westmoor Technology Park in Westminster, Colorado illustrate
SEM’s abilities and are representative of their body of work.

Farnsworth
Group President and CEO Karen Jensen, PE, said: "The acquisition of SEM allows Farnsworth
Group to expand our breadth of capabilities to meet the growing demands of our
clients.The integration of architecture
into our existing Colorado engineering operations will allows us to provide
full-service, integrated solutions to our clients.Our two firms share a similar purpose and philosophy
which is to place our customers' needs at the forefront.We are enthusiastic about the new
opportunities this acquisition will offer, and the expertise and talent joining
the Farnsworth Group team."

"It’s an
honor to become a part of an exceptional design firm with such a respected
reputation," said Todd Decker, who joins Farnsworth Group from SEM to lead the
Company's Colorado architecture group along with fellow SEM Principals Bruce
McLennan and Terry Rucker. "We are excited
about the future.SEM has always been a
great place to work and our clients have always received great service.This takes it to a new level."

Farnsworth Group recently participated in Western Illinois University's
bi-annual "We Care" event at the University's Macomb, IL,
campus.This is the third consecutive
year Farnsworth Group has participated in the event where students,
administration, faculty, and Macomb residents volunteer their time for
beautification efforts around the campus.

As the architects and landscape architects for the Macomb
campus, Farnsworth Group employees added their elbow grease to this year's ‘We
Care’ projects.

The highlight of the week was the planting at Brophy Plaza,
which was designed by Farnsworth Group’s landscape architects.As the lead designer for Brophy Plaza,
Landscape Architectural Manager Jeff Martin, PLA, was excited to see this
important campus space finalized.

“Brophy Plaza is the first constructed ‘gathering space’
Farnsworth Group has designed throughout the campus,” Martin said. “The intent
of these spaces is to extend the WIU ‘brand’ into the landscape, and to provide
pedestrian friendly spaces that facilitate interactions at critical places
throughout the campus.”

Four other ‘gathering spaces’ throughout the campus are in
various stages of design.

It was an absolute pleasure being a part of the Farnsworth Group team!

At first, I had no idea what I was really getting myself into, but everyone involved in the company played a role in making my transition from student to intern much more comfortable than I could have ever imagined.Each and every day provided me with an opportunity to learn a new lesson from professionals amongst various disciplines in a unique atmosphere.

In its continuing effort to remain an area leader in progressive environmental practices, the SMG-managed Peoria Civic Center announced the opening of PEP electric vehicle charging stations in its Marquee Parking Lot.

"The Farnsworth team brought this idea to the table, and guided us through the process. It gave us the opportunity to be the first solar powered charging station in down state Illinois. There was no question that this was the right thing to do," said General Manager Jim Wetherington.

The Peoria Civic Center has implemented a number of green initiatives in recent years. In 2010, the facility replaced all T-12 lamps and ballasts to high efficiency T-8 lamps and ballasts. In total, 2,677 lamps and 1,345 ballasts were changed, which ultimately saves 120,377 kilowatt hours of energy per year. In late 2011, recycling was added to the theater lobby and meeting rooms. Then in 2012, the facility began to compost kitchen scraps and landscape waste.

Farnsworth Group Named to Top 300 Architects List2013-08-19

Farnsworth Group, Inc. has been recognized as one of the Top 300 Architecture Firms by Architectural Record, Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) sister magazine.

Farnsworth Group landed at No. 292 on the Architectural
Firm’s annual listing of the Top 300 Design Firms. This marks Farnsworth Group's first entry on the Top 300 Architecture list. The Top 300 Architecture Firms list, published
annually in July, ranks companies by revenue in millions of dollars for
architectural services performed in 2012. Architectural Record is
a monthly magazine dedicated
to architecture and interior design

Bloomington, IL … June 3, 2013…Farnsworth Group, Inc., a national full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, has been recognized as one of the Top 500 Design Firms by Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine.

Farnsworth Group landed at No. 245 on the ENR annual listing of the Top 500 Design Firms for 2013, moving up the list 15 spots from last year’s ranking of No. 260. The Top 500 Design Firms list ranks the 500 largest U.S. based engineering, architectural and environmental design firms, both publicly and privately held, based on annual revenue at home and abroad by each company.

“We always look forward to ENR’s annual ranking of the top design firms, and we are proud to be listed as one of the Top 500 firms in the nation,” said Farnsworth Group President and Chief Executive Officer Karen M. Jensen, PE. “Our move in the rankings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees, and the quality of services that we provide to our clients. We know that our success is dependent on the level of service we provide, and the close relationship we develop with our valued clients.”

Farnsworth Group, Inc., an employee-owned company, is a full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, offering clients more than 325 professionals located throughout a nationwide network of offices including Illinois, Missouri , Colorado, Wisconsin, California and Georgia.

Jensen Named to ISU College of Business Hall of Fame2013-02-04

Farnsworth Group President & Chief Executive Officer Karen Jensen, PE, was one of seven individuals inducted into Illinois State University's College of Business Hall of Fame.

The ISU College of Business Hall of Fame inductees are recognized for their significant career accomplishments and outstanding service to others.

Jensen earned a Master of Business Administration from Illinois State University in 1986.

Farnsworth Group Acquires Systems Engineering2013-03-01

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO … January 3, 2013…Farnsworth Group, Inc., a national full-service engineering and architecture firm, announced today they have acquired Systems Engineering, a facilities engineering firm based in Colorado Springs, CO. Systems Engineering provides Mechanical, Plumbing and Process Piping engineering services to a broad range of clients throughout the nation.

Systems Engineering began in 1979 as Sol Chavez and Associates before being renamed to Systems Engineering in 1986. The firm gained a reputation for providing customized engineering solutions and delivering exceptional client service. It also provides clients with a unique skillset in process piping and ultrapure water design. Systems Engineering will bring to Farnsworth Group a talented team of experienced professionals and additional leadership in the Company’s Colorado operations.

Farnsworth Group President and CEO Karen Jensen, PE, said: “Farnsworth Group and Systems Engineering were both built on the same philosophy that the customer is our first priority. The firms have complimentary services that will help reinforce our capabilities, resources and leadership to our clients. We are enthusiastic about the new opportunities this acquisition will offer, and the expertise and talent joining the Farnsworth Group team.”

Systems Engineering staff and clients will benefit from Farnsworth Group’s full-service, multi-disciplined engineering services, the firm’s nationwide network of offices and 100-year history, and the support of more than 300 Farnsworth Group personnel.

“The goals and values of Farnsworth Group mirrored those that we worked hard to establish at Systems Engineering,” said former Systems Engineering President Dave Buesser, PE, who will now lead Farnsworth Group’s Colorado Springs, CO, consulting office. “Farnsworth Group will allow us to focus on what we do best, and that is serving our clients with excellence as we design high performance buildings and systems. Plus, we will have the resources and expertise of an established, multi-disciplined firm that can only further support our clients’ needs.”

Farnsworth Group, Inc., an employee-owned company, is a full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, offering clients more than 300 professionals located throughout a nationwide network of offices including Illinois, Missouri , Colorado, Wisconsin, California and Georgia.

California Hospital Earns Sustainable Design Honor1969-12-31

The Los Angeles Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council awarded an Honorable Mention in the Innovation in Design category for the 2012 Sustainable Innovation Awards for the South Wing Addition, Providence Holy Cross Medical Center (PHCMC) in Mission Hills, CA. Farnsworth Group provided LEED Consultation services and helped the hospital achieve LEED Silver – the first hospital in Southern California to earn that honor.

The award ceremony took place at the 8th Annual Green Gala Awards at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, CA. Sustainability Technical Manager Josh Hickman, LEED AP BD+C, CxT, who proved instrumental in providing LEED documentation services for the hospital, represented the project team at the award ceremony.

Planning for the four-story addition to PHCMC began nearly a decade ago when the LEED rating system was in its infancy with a goal to achieve LEED Certified. However, through the commitment of the hospital and the project team, the initial goal was ultimately exceeded, making PHCMC the first LEED Silver hospital in Southern Califor­nia and one of the few in the nation.

To minimize future material use, the building is expected to not only withstand an 8.0 magnitude earthquake, but also remain opera­tional. Other key sustainable features include:

“Of all the forces of nature, I should think the wind contains the largest amount of motive power—that is, power to move things. … As yet, the wind is an untamed, and unharnessed force; and quite possibly one of the greatest discoveries hereafter to be made, will be the taming, and harnessing of the wind.”

Abraham Lincoln

NORMAL, IL … More than 40 people heard these prophetic words that Lincoln first spoke in 1858 as Heartland Community College celebrated the installation of its 1.65 MW wind turbine on Friday, Sept.14, on its campus in Normal, IL. Attendees included college administrators and staff members; local and state dignitaries; and project team members.

Farnsworth Group provided grant assistance, land surveying, and transportation, structural and electrical engineering design services for the project, for which installation was completed in June 2012.

Under a tent erected a few hundred feet from the base of the 36-story turbine on the northwest corner of the campus, Heartland Board Chairman Gregg Chadwick quoted extensively from Lincoln’s “First Lecture on Discoveries and Inventions.”

Chadwick was joined by College President Dr. Allen Goben, who called the turbine project, which is highly visible from nearby interstate highways, “a continual exclamation point reminder of the emerging green economy.”

Agnes Mrozowski, Acting Deputy Director of the Illinois Energy Office, said Heartland’s commercial grade turbine was one of 136 ARRA-funded projects that together produced 13,000 jobs in Illinois over two years.

She also noted that the turbine had produced 22 percent of the Heartland campus’s energy in July, which typically is a month with low winds. Normal, IL, City Manager Mark Peterson also praised the college for completing “a tough, tough project” and embracing “green development before it was fashionable.”

Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford said wind turbines across the state are creating learning opportunities through projects such as Heartland’s. Besides cost savings, they also are generating revenues through the exporting of energy from commercial wind farms.

Dr. Jerry Weber, President of College of Lake County and a former Heartland administrator, concluded by commenting, “The green economy is about networking and partnerships. … And then it’s there for the future.”

Two Farnsworth Group, Inc. employees earned awards from the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE) for their contributions to furthering the engineering profession in Illinois.

Steve Myers, PE, a Farnsworth Group Principal and leader of the Company’s Water/Wastewater group, was awarded the Professional Engineering Management Award.The Professional Engineering Management Award recognizes a person in a management capacity, supervising engineers.

Mark Wylie, PE, SE, a Structural Engineer with Farnsworth Group, was awarded the Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes a member who has made an outstanding contribution in a single area of Society achievement.

Myers has more than 30 years of experience in planning, design and construction of various types of municipal projects. He has worked with numerous municipalities, both large and small, to improve their infrastructure. Myers has successfully coordinated engineering projects with countless regulatory agencies, partnering companies and clients.

He has held several leadership positions within the Bloomington Chapter of ISPE and served as President in 2009. He is also an active member of the American Water Works Association and the Illinois Municipal League.

Wylie has designed a wide variety of transportation related structures including state highway, county bridges and retaining walls. He has been heavily involved in both the Bloomington Area ISPE Chapter and the State Society of ISPE having served as President of both. In recognition of his engineering talents and service, he received the ISPE Young Engineer of the Year Award as well as the Illinois Award.

Beyond the engineering community, Wylie has been involved in Boy Scouts of American, Second Presbyterian Church, the Children’s Foundation and Kiwanis International.

About the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers

The Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE), established in 1886, is a professional association representing more than 1,800 engineers from all fields of practice. ISPE, headquartered in Springfield, includes among its membership: licensed professional engineers, licensed structural engineers, licensed land surveyors, engineer interns, graduate engineers and engineering students.

Communities Dedicate Illinois River Road Kiosks2012-07-08

Six new Illinois River Road kiosks, designed by Farnsworth Group, were recently dedicated marking the Illinois River Road Scenic Byway.

The kiosks provide information about the Illinois River Road, with each kiosk offering a welcome sign, maps of the Illinois River Road system, and a panel dedicated to attractions located in the host community. The kiosks are located in Peoria, Ottawa, Princeton, Havana, Pekin and Canton.

Farnsworth Group was selected to prepare several conceptual kiosk designs for the Byway Committee’s review and approval. Farnsworth was then directed to install informational kiosks for Gateway Communities along the Illinois River Road Scenic Byway.

Uptown Circle Wins National Transportation Design Award1969-12-31

The Town of Normal, IL, was awarded a prestigious national transportation award for its Uptown Circle, a roundabout that incorporates a public gathering place in an urban setting. Farnsworth Group served as the subsurface instracture engineer on the project.

Awards were given for projects that went well beyond standard practice to demonstrate an exceptional level of innovation and creativity. There were more than 50 projects submitted from across the nation. The award was developed by the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration and co-sponsored by the American Planning Association and the Transportation Research Board.

Farnsworth Group designed the municipal infrastructure (water mains and sewers) and piping - including pumps and reservoirs - for the Circle's water features.

“It took significant collaboration with engineers and other officials from various federal and state agencies to agree upon a design that could be functional, safe, and beautiful," said Uptown Redevelopment Director Wayne Aldrich.

“As an elected official, I’m pleased to see a major piece of infrastructure serve triple duty as traffic control, stormwater management, and vibrant civic space,” said Town Council member Jeff Fritzen. “The Uptown Circle fits seamlessly into the fabric of historic Uptown Normal, providing a central gathering place where none previously existed.”

The award committee based its decision on many features of the Uptown Circle, including the cooperation and out-of-the-box thinking by representatives from federal, state, and local agencies, as well as from private firms. It was also significant that the circle is an integral part of a larger urban revitalization effort that seeks to bring together multiple modes of transportation, particularly with the adjacent multimodal transportation center and multiuse Constitution Trail.

Uptown Circle has also been featured in several national publications, including Civil Engineer and American Public Works Reporter, and it has been presented at the annual conference of the U.S. Green Building Council and the American Society of Landscape Architects. The Uptown Circle is also the 2011 winner of the Civic Places category of the USEPA's National Award for Smart Growth Achievement and the 2010 winner of the ASLA Illinois Presidential Award in the Urban Design Category.

Employees Raise Money for Childrens Hospital of Illinois2012-12-06

Farnsworth Group employees recently participated in the 27th Annual Childrens Miracle Network Telethon, which raised a record amount of more than $3.5 million for the Childrens Hospital of Illinois.

Farnsworth Group offices hosted a variety of fundraising events to help raise money for the hospital, locatedin Peoria, IL. In addition, five Farnsworth Group employees served as VIPs at the telethon, working the phones from 11 a.m. to noon.

The telethon raised a total of $3,573,918, shattering the previous year's total of nearly $2.5 million.

Julie Fisher Awarded SAME Presidents Medal1969-12-31

Julie Fisher, F.SAME, has been awarded the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) President's Medal for her work on the organization's Wounded Warrior Task Force.

Julie, who serves as the task force chairman, was recognized for her outstanding leadership of the SAME Wounded Warrior Task Force, which raised funds for Quality of Life Plus (QL+) engineering projects at California Polytechnic University. She was instrumental in the development of the SAME Wounded Warrior website which highlights Post efforts and national resources that assist wounded warriors.

Farnsworth Group served as the lead Architect/Engineer for the projects, in conjunction with Burnidge Cassell and Associates, that included one new facility, two expansions and two significant renovations.

The projects included:

- North Branch, a brand new state-of-the-art 30,000 SF library facility
- Main Library, included a new entry tower and renovation on four floors
- Lincoln Carnegie Branch, involving a 14,000 SF Addition in addition to complete renovation of this historic facility
- Lakeview Branch, that included new furnishings and finishes throughout
- McClure Branch, including renovation of this nearly 100-year-old historic facility

Click here to view these projects in our portfolio. Click here to read the editorial.

Farnsworth Group Landscape Architect Jeff Martin, RLA, recently authored an article titled, "Creating a Sense of Place by Looking to Our Past," in the April issue of InterBusiness Issues.

In the article, Martin discusses the trend of New Urbanism, where communities contain walkable streets, interconnected street grids, public open spaces, quality architecture and sustainable development practices.

The annual award is given to a recipient who has exemplified the spirit of loyalty to the organization and who has demonstrated a strong desire to further themselves in the right-of-way field. The award is given in honor of Helen C. Peck and Frances Reisbeck, two past presidents of the Chapter.

Emerick Receives Survey Service Award1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group's Stan Emerick, PLS, was awarded the 2011 Robert E. Myers Service Award from the Missouri Society of Professional Surveyors (MSPS). Stan is a Senior Project Surveyor located in Farnsworth Group's St. Louis office.

The Robert E. Myers Service Award is given to an MSPS member who, over a minimum 10-year timeframe, has given exemplary service and dedication to the surveying profession and to the Society.

Stan has more than 25 years survey experience, and currently serves as Chairman of the Land Survey Advisory Committee for the Misouri Department of Natural Resources. He also serves as a Director for MSPS and chairs their History and co-chairs the Standards committees.

Landscape Architecture Brings New Park to Community1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group's Landscape Architecture Team has played a key role in developing a new park in Chillicothe, IL. One of the signature elements to the new park is a water feature that includes a splash pad for kids to play. The new park also features a 15-foot hill where kids can climb to get an overview of the park, plus use if for sledding in the winter. The new Santa Fe Park project was recently profiled in Turf magazine. Click here to read the artice.

Farnsworth Group Wins Awards for Water Projects2012-07-02

Farnsworth Group was recently awarded two merit awards by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) in the 2012 Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards Competition.

Farnsworth Group’s award winning projects, the Regional Water System in Virginia, Illinois, and the Wastewater Collection and Treatment System in Lexington, Illinois, won awards in the Water Resources category and the Waste and Storm Water category, respectively. Entries are judged on the basis of engineering excellence, the degree to which the clients’ needs are met and the benefits to the public welfare and private practice of engineering.

Farnsworth Group worked with the City of Virginia and the regional water system entities to plan, obtain financing, design, permit and construct the Regional Water System. The recommended project plan included a new 1.4 MGD lime-softening water treatment plant, five (5) new 400 gpm each groundwater wells, 10 miles of new 12-inch raw water main piping from the new wells to the new water treatment plant, and a new 300,000 gallon elevated water storage tank located in Virginia. The project has resulted in improved water quality and cost effective combined operations, maintenance and administration of the system which services over 4,000 residents across Cass County. The regional system provides its customers with reliable and stable water through an economically and energy efficient lime softening treatment process which replaces the existing deteriorated facilities of the municipalities and eliminates the unreliable and potentially contaminated private individual wells for the rural service areas.

After evaluating numerous alternatives, Farnsworth Group designed a zero-depth gravity sewer collection system for the City of Lexington, Illinois, including five lift stations, a wastewater treatment plant with fine bubble air diffusion in three aerated lagoons as well as an innovative zero-discharge central-pivot spray irrigation system that distributes plant effluent onto 320 acres of biomass and standard agricultural crops. The collection system transports domestic waste from approximately 850 residential and commercial properties which previously discharged into Turkey Creek. Due to this zero discharge system, a NPDES permit was not necessary. The design is not only environmentally efficient but will be economically sustainable for years to come.

Farnsworth Group Acquires The Engineering Company (TEC)1969-12-31

FORT COLLINS, CO … January 30, 2012…Farnsworth Group, Inc., a national full-service engineering and architecture firm, announced today they have acquired The Engineering Company (TEC), a municipal, water/wastewater and survey firm based in Fort Collins, CO.

TEC has been based in Fort Collins, CO, since 1985 serving Colorado Special Districts and municipalities throughout the Rocky Mountain and Great Plains regions. TEC has an excellent reputation and will further augment Farnsworth Group’s existing Colorado operations in Fort Collins, Denver and Colorado Springs.

Farnsworth Group President and CEO Karen Jensen, PE, said: “TEC’s reputation as a quality provider of engineering services will immediately strengthen our engineering presence in the Colorado and western region of the U.S. We are enthusiastic about the new opportunities this acquisition will offer, and the expertise and talent joining the Farnsworth Group team to better serve all of our clients.”

TEC staff and clients will benefit from Farnsworth Group’s full-service, multi-disciplined engineering services, the firm’s nationwide network of offices and 100-year history, and the support of more than 300 Farnsworth Group personnel.

“TEC is looking forward to being part of Farnsworth Group and continuing our mission of providing high quality engineering services from our Fort Collins offices,” said former TEC President J. Brian Zick, PE, who will now serve as Municipal Manager for Farnsworth Group’s Western Region. “With Farnsworth Group, we will now be able to offer enhanced services to our clients and provide them with additional capabilities and solutions to solve their engineering needs.”

Farnsworth Group Helps Bring New Park to Town1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group's Landscape Architecture Group helped develop a new and innovative park for Chillicothe, IL, a small central Illinois community. With an involved community, engaged project team and overall cooperation, the new Santa Fe Park offers some interesting features to its residents. Click here to read the article that profiled the project in Turf magazine.

New Cancer Center Opens Doors1969-12-31

The University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria (UICOMP) held a ribbon cutting to mark the offical opening of its new Cancer Center. Farnsworth Group served as the Architect/Engineer on the project, which is part of UICOMP's vision to further develop state-of-the-art research facilities in Peoria, IL.

The 28,000 SF research center is dedicated to the study of molecular, cellular, and genetic characteristics involved in cancer. With the commitment of the University of Illinois, Caterpillar Inc., OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Methodist Medical Center of Illinois, the Heartland Partnership, various government entities, and dedicated donors, this new facility will significantly enhance the opportunities for discovering a cure for cancer.

This new facility includes a 2-story laboratory and research office wing, together with a new main campus entry and walkway link. A prominent sail feature with lantern will help define that new main campus entry. Sloped exterior walls at the new south elevation will further enhance the overall ensemble.

PEORIA, IL…December 8, 2011…Farnsworth Group, Inc. is pleased to announce that Jeff Martin, a Registered Landscape Architect, has joined its Peoria office as a Senior Landscape Engineer.

Jeff joins Farnsworth Group after spending more than 20 years at Teska Associates, Inc., a highly creative multi-disciplinary urban planning, land development and landscape architectural consulting firm located in Evanston, IL. He has extensive experience throughout the Midwest working with developers, land owners, builders, institutions, municipalities and other public agencies.

At Farnsworth Group, Jeff will be providing private and public sector clients with a diverse range of planning and design services which include master land planning, site development, urban design and planning and landscape design. He will work closely with the Company’s Architectural and Land Assembly Groups, and will expand its landscape architecture expertise into the Chicago-land area via the firm’s Shorewood, IL, office.

A native of Eureka, IL, Jeff is excited to have the opportunity to provide his creative insight and experience to local clients whom are looking to distinguish themselves in the marketplace with designs that add value and create a ‘sense of place.’

Julie Fisher leads SAME National Wounded Warrior Task Force2011-08-11

Farnsworth Group's Julie Fisher wasa appointed Chair of the Society of American Military Engineers' Wounded Warrior Task Force (WWTF). The appointment was made by SAME National President and Rear Admiral Chris Mossey,PE, CEC, USN.

The WWTF was established to further develop SAME’s national strategy to support wounded warriors and families of fallen warriors which represents one of the Society’s three focus areas for 2011-2012. The task force has developed three recommended key efforts to enlist SAME support for wounded warriors through their rehabilitation and for many, their transition to the civilian workforce.

In August, Julie accepted a $5,000 donation from the SAME Missouri River/Texoma Joint Regional Conference Planning Committee on behalf of all wounded warriors of our military forces. Please visit the newly established WWTF website for more information, www.same.org/woundedwarrior.

Julie Sass Named AIA-CI Outstanding Associate Member2011-01-11

The American Institute of Architects Central Illinois Chapter named Julie Sass, an Architectural Designer with Farnsworth Group, Inc., as its Outstanding Associate Member.

The awards are given to recognize firms and individuals who have contributed to the reputation of architecture through outstanding service to the profession, education and community.

In its selection of Sass, the selection board said: “Julie demonstrates exactly what is great about society’s current group of emerging professionals. Her leadership and willingness to serve compliment an inspiring set of accomplishments. It is very encouraging to see her involvement goes much further in touching the peripherals of the architectural profession.”

Farnsworth Group Named Outstanding Firm by AIA-CI1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group, Inc., a national full-service engineering, architecture and survey firm, was awarded the Outstanding Firm Award by the American Institute of Architects (AIA)-Central Illinois chapter. This is the second straight time Farnsworth Group has been given the Outstanding Firm Award.

The awards are given to recognize firms and individuals who have contributed to the reputation of architecture through outstanding service to the profession, education and community.

In its selection of Farnsworth Group, the selection board said: “Farnsworth Group possesses dedication to the profession and community and shows a genuine understanding of what is needed to help create a prosperous society, and then implements those principles to actually make a difference.”

College of the Desert Earns LEED Gold Rating1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group is pleased to announce that the College of the Desert Student Services Center in Palm Desert, CA, received a LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). As part of this $16 million project, Farnsworth Group provided LEED commissioning and LEED consultation for the 48,132 SF building.

Farnsworth Group’s team faced unique challenges. The firm was hired after the project had been designed to LEED Silver levels and after construction had already begun. Farnsworth Group provided a diligent review of the contract documents and made recommendations for changes in a timely manner to elevate this project to a LEED Gold certification level.

The sustainable features in the facility included heating and cooling via a central hydronic system, a water-conserving landscape, an architectural environmental control system via built-in architectural sun shading devices and north facing fenestration. Energy generation from a rooftop photo-voltaic system offset the energy used on site and building automation controls optimized the mechanical system usage.

The Farnsworth Group team exceeded the client’s original expectations by achieving the LEED Gold rating and continues to serve the College of the Desert campus with three more building projects.

Farnsworth Group Architect Paints Mural Honoring Veterans2011-11-10

Farnsworth Group Architect Dave Burnison, AIA, recently put the finishing touches on a mural he painted on the exterior of the American Legion Hall in Normal, IL. The mural features iconic images from America's wars. The raising of the flag on Iwo Jima and images from soldiers in Afghanistan bookend other impressions of those who have fought for our country.

"My dad was a helicopter pilot and I was sort of a military brat," Burnison recently told the Pantagraph. "So, I have a lot of respect for those who have fought for us. That's why when I was approached about the project, I had a very good feeling for it becuase this is important to me."

Farnsworth Group Interior Designer Sarah Kathro recently authored the article, "Trends in Office Design." In the article, Sarah discusses the role technology is playing in office layout. Click here to read the article.

Farnsworth Group Helps School District with Field of Dreams1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group played a key role in helping the Dunlap, IL, school district renovate its athletic facilities, including the addition of an artificial turf football stadium. Farnsworth Group Landscape Architect Bruce Brown, RLA, discusses how the renovations evolved. Click here to read the article.

Farnsworth Employees Earn Energy / Green Certifications1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group, Inc. is proud to announce the recent certifications of two of our professionals.

Jayme Buresh of our Colorado Springs Center has earned her Certified Energy Manager (CEM) designation. This certificate is awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers for meeting certification and competence standards. The CEM is a recognized standard for the measure of professional accomplishment within the energy management field and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Office of Federal Energy Management Programs and the US Agency for International Development as well as numerous other state, utility and energy corporations.

Nigel A. Gray of our Atlanta office has earned his LEED Green Associate credential. This professional designation is earned by professionals who want to demonstrate green building expertise in non-technical fields. The credential is offered by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Two Farnsworth Engineers Win ISPE Awards2011-01-09

Farnsworth Group, Inc. is proud to announce that two professionals from the firm have recently been awarded engineering awards from the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers (ISPE).

Donald L. Adams, a Farnsworth Group Principal, won the ISPE Professional Engineering Management Award. The recipient of the Professional Engineering Management Award, according to ISPE selection criteria, “shall have provided leadership in achievement of technical goals, encouraged and inspired technical and professional achievement, and demonstrated a continuing concern for professional ethics.”

Mark S. Wylie, Structural Engineering Manager for the firm, won the ISPE Illinois Award. The Illinois Award is ISPE's highest award given to an individual by the Illinois Society and is presented to an engineer who has made outstanding contributions to the engineering profession, the public welfare, and/or humankind.

Farnsworth Group Helps Engineer Innovative Roundabout1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group was profiled in Civil Engineers magazine for its innovative approach to a traffic roundabout in Normal, Illinois. The roundabout collects stormwater and uses it in various fountain features that form a central element of a parklike setting. Farnsworth Group's Kevin Hannel, PE, discusses the stormwater engineering components on the project.

Bachman Appointed Farnsworth Group Principal 1969-12-31

Farnsworth Group has announced that Eric R. Bachman, PE, has been appointed a Principal of Farnsworth Group. Mr. Bachman is located in the Company’s Peoria, IL, office and currently serves as leader of the Peoria Transportation Section.

Mr. Bachman joined Farnsworth Group in 1998 as a Transportation Project Engineer in Bloomington. In 2006, Eric was given responsibility for starting a new transportation section in the Peoria office. Today, that section has grown to include a full-service transportation team, earning a reputation throughout central Illinois for delivering quality transportation and traffic services while building exceptional client relationships.

Mr. Bachman has over 18 years of experience in transportation systems and bridge planning, design, and construction. He has served as a Project Manager with responsibilities including all phases of project development and completion for municipalities, counties, and state Departments of Transportation. Some of his notable projects include Grandview Drive Reconstruction, Peoria, IL; Orange Prairie Road Extension, Peoria, IL; Sheridan Triangle Business District, Peoria, IL; and the University of Illinois Medical Office (Main Street and U of I Medical Way Intersection), Peoria, IL.

Eric is a member of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Illinois and the ACEC/IDOT Committee. He is a member in the first program for Future Leaders of Engineering in Illinois provided through the ACEC-IL. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering with Honors from the University of Illinois and served six years with the Illinois Army National Guard Infantry.